Katie Purple

Plant Type: evergreen perennial groundcover
Plant Height: 10–12 inches
Spread: 12–18 inches
Flower Color: deep purple
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Katie Purple Dwarf Ruellia (Ruellia brittoniana ‘Katie Purple’): Compact Groundcover with Rich Purple Blooms

Katie Purple is a dwarf form of Mexican petunia, valued for its compact size and long season of vibrant purple blooms. With its low, spreading habit, it’s perfect for borders, containers, and mass plantings where continuous color and minimal maintenance are desired.

Key Features of Katie Purple Dwarf Ruellia

• Brilliant Purple Blooms: Abundant trumpet-shaped flowers from spring through fall.
• Compact Growth Habit: Dense, rounded mound stays only 10–12 inches tall.
• Low Maintenance: Requires little care once established.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Performs well in Arizona’s hot climate, especially with consistent water.

Growing and Care Tips

Katie Purple is a tough yet beautiful groundcover for sunny or partially shaded sites.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils.
Water: Moderate water needs; more frequent irrigation encourages heavier blooming.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring to enhance flowering.
Pruning: Rarely needed; light trim in winter keeps it tidy and encourages new spring growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Borders & Edging: Perfect for lining walkways and garden beds.
• Groundcover: Creates a lush, colorful carpet when planted in groups.
• Containers: Works well in pots and mixed arrangements.
• Pollinator Gardens: Blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Summary

Katie Purple Dwarf Ruellia provides long-lasting, vibrant purple flowers in a compact form that’s perfect for Arizona landscapes. Its resilience, low maintenance, and extended bloom season make it a favorite choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Katie Purple Dwarf Ruellia

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum flowers; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soils are best.
Spacing: Plant 12–18 inches apart for groundcover effect.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—plants form a natural mound.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly at planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water weekly for heavy flowering; tolerant of less frequent watering once established.
• Winter: Water every 3–4 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 6 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One per plant; add a second emitter for sandy soils or larger clumps.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in peak summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Katie Purple Dwarf Ruellia:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 1–2 inches to dry slightly between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Can reduce flowering if kept too wet.
• Mulch: Use gravel or bark mulch to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.